SOIL NUTRIENT SHIFTS FOLLOWING PHOSPHORUS APPLICATION IN INTEGRATED LEGUME-SORGHUM SYSTEMS

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) are pivotal nutrients essential for plant growth, serving as the foundation for modern agriculture. The conventional agricultural practice relies heavily on water-soluble chemical fertilizers to provide a steady supply of these nutrients, as highlighted by Yu et al. (2012) and Marschner (1995). However, this approach presents significant challenges, particularly for smallholder farmers, as it is cost-prohibitive and environmentally unsustainable, as noted by Ginkel (2011). The necessity to reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers and explore cost-effective, eco-friendly alternatives is evident, as emphasized by Jayasinghearachi and Seneviratne (2006). This study delves into the quest for sustainable agricultural solutions by investigating strategies to reduce the dependence on chemical fertilizers. It explores economical and environmentally friendly technologies to address the challenges associated with nutrient supply in agriculture. By mitigating the environmental impact and economic burden, these innovative approaches aim to foster a more sustainable and accessible means of supporting agricultural productivity